A Guide to August Meteor Showers: A Sky Show You Don't Want to Miss

The fourth of July has come and gone, and although you won't be seeing many fireworks another spectacular sky show is on its way.

Every year in mid August the Perseid meteor showers decorate the North Eastern sky with phenomenal streaks of light. This incredible display results when Earth passes through the orbit of fragments created by the comet Swift Tuttle. The fragments become extremely hot as they enter Earth's atmosphere, creating streaks of light before they disintegrate.

This meteor shower has always been a special event for me. When I was a little girl I remember lying on the lawn chairs in our back yard, with my mom and little sister, staring up at the night sky in anticipation. First I'd only see a few and then suddenly there were so many "shooting starts" I couldn't keep track of them. The streaks of light created by these meteors is absolutely amazing. They aren't your every day "shooting stars."

Meteor shower activity will be greatest between august 8th and the 14th, reaching a climax at around 2am on the 12th. At 11pm it is possible to see anywhere from ten to twenty meteors an hour. As it nears 2am you may be able to see about 50 to 100 meteors every hour.

For the best viewing experience make sure you are in a location away from heavy city light. If you have to go somewhere outside of the city to watch the shower, choose a safe place as a vantage point. Set up your viewing station facing the North Eastern horizon. The showers will be most visible in the Northern hemisphere.

If you live in a colder area it's a good idea to bring a blanket or jacket with you. You'll also want to pack some bug spray. If you are watching the meteor shower at home, be sure to shut off any outside lights that could inhibit your view. The meteor showers are a great event to share with others or to experience quietly on your own. However you choose to spend it, you won't be left disappointed.

Because the Perseis Constellation will be just over the North Eastern horizon, visibility is limited in the Southern hemisphere . However, if you are able to find a viewing area where the Northern horizon is clearly visible you may still be able to see about ten to twenty meteors an hour.

If you've never viewed the Perseid meteor showers you'll want to this year. It is a phenomenon you will never forget.